Since the last post I have been relatively consistent with the evening runs: an average of 1hr - 1.5hr run followed a slightly shorter run the next day with a 'day off' the next and so on. With each run I am needing a bit less time to get comfortable with the breathing. The strength of the body seems to always kick in between 30 - 60 mins. This is when I feel at my strongest with a burst of energy by the 60th min. I am getting to know my body and the comfort zones.

I must admit, I did feel a difference when I had not trained for 3 days in a row (I used up a few of my running evening for socialising!) and tried to start again yesterday. I have learned my lesson!

I have been meeting many runners in the town. There is one guy who has even completed the Iron Man which consist of 6 days running! He is an architect by day! His advise to me was simply to enjoy the run and to feel free to walk at any stage of the race as the most important thing is to finish. How true!

I have just finished reading a book called 'What I talk about when I talk about running' by Haruki murakami, which was suggested by a friend of mine. It is very inspiring as he talks quite freely about his experience as a runner and it also makes you think in a different perspective about life. I highly recommend this book for anyone as it is interesting not only just from a runner's point of view.

My daily view from La Villa

I ran around the town from one end to almost the other in a route which lasted 1hr 10mins - just over 10km.

I was unprepared for 'low battery' in my mini i-pod, but thankfully, I had amazing views to keep my mind focused on the run.

After an hour of non-stop running I felt a sudden burst of energy so I sprinted for part of the final leg. I spent the rest of the evening relaxing and massaging out the tension in my legs.

The surface is a mixture of flat road and rocky terrain. I hope my trainers will be ok as they are only designed for flats / pavements, i.e. city running!

Today I feel good, however slightly sleepy! It must be the fresh air and the fact I feel proud of my run!

The hills are alive with fresh air!

Instead of waiting for this morning I decided to take the plunge and went for my first run yesterday in La Villa General Belgrano, Argentina. There was no real reason stopping me as I was being offered: fresh air, good distance, my space and an amazing backdrop! I took some photos but I forgot my camera cable so those will follow shortly.

I have over two months here for some quality training so I plan to enjoy every moment. The first 5 mins of the run was a struggle to begin with due to being in a different surrounding and having to adjust with the breathing. After 20 mins I felt great and wanted to go on and on....so I did! I ran round the town and got familiar with what was on offer for the next runs. I ran for 40 mins before stopping off for a quick drink of water at home (that is how close everything is here!!) and then continued for a further 20 mins. I didn't want to push myself too much on the first run, however, eventually, I hope to manage several longer runs which will give me enough stamina to complete runs of 3 - 4 hrs.